Briefing book for the Clerk of the Privy Council 2023

[ * ] An asterisk appears where sensitive information has been removed in accordance with the Access to Information Act and Privacy Act.

Intelligence Assessment Secretariat – NSIA branch

Jody Thomas, National Security and Intelligence Advisor to the Prime Minister

Key responsibilities by branch and assistant secretary

Martin Green – Assistant Secretary for Intelligence Assessment (IAS)

• IAS is a strategic, all-source intelligence analysis and assessment unit.
• IAS is also the Secretariat for the Deputy Minister Committee for Intelligence Response (DMCIR) and the Deputy Minister Intelligence Committee (DMIC).
• Key partners within PCO include Security and Intelligence (S&I), and Foreign and Defence Policy (FDP)

IAS reports to the National Security and Intelligence Advisor to the Prime Minister.

Key files / issues

Intelligence assessments

• Supports informed government decision-making on international and national security issues with current and strategic assessments on the foreign trends and developments that impact Canadian interests.
• PCO-IAS regularly produces National Intelligence Assessments, the Daily Foreign Intelligence Brief, the Prime Minister’s Weekly Intelligence Brief, Current Intelligence Briefs, Intelligence Memoranda, Strategic Commentaries, intelligence placemats, and oral briefings.

Intelligence support for decision makers

• Provides timely, relevant, high-quality intelligence analysis and assessments to the PM, Cabinet, Clerk of the Privy Council, and senior Government of Canada (GoC) leaders.
  • PCO-IAS provides a weekly intelligence briefing to the Clerk.
  • PCO-IAS provides a weekly intelligence briefing to the Prime Minister’s Office as well as the Prime Minister’s Weekly Intelligence Brief.
  • PCO-IAS provides a monthly intelligence briefing to Five Eyes International Liaison Officers.
  • PCO-IAS provides intelligence briefings as required to internal PCO stakeholders such as FDP, and to various other ADM and DM level committees and meetings.

Intelligence community (IC) coordination

• Plays a key interdepartmental leadership and coordination role for Canadian Intelligence Community (IC) assessments (e.g. National Intelligence Assessments). IAS also convenes the IC through DG and ADM-level intelligence assessment committees and performs the Secretariat function for DMIC and DMCIR.

Intelligence engagement

• Fosters relationships with allied intelligence assessment organizations, which includes the Five Eyes and Second Tier Partners.

Intelligence community enhancement

• Builds a stronger IC through integrated, collaborative, cost-effective analyst training provided through the PCO-IAS’ Canadian Academy for Intelligence Analysis (CAIA).
• PCO-IAS also hosts the Intelligence Analysis Community of Practice (IA CoP). The CoP aims to enhance Canada’s intelligence capability by establishing common standards and improving the recruitment and development of a diverse talent pool within the IAS.

Upcoming decisions

No upcoming decisions required.

Key events and meetings (July to December)

Five Eyes Heads of Assessment (HOA)

[ * ]

• Attendee(s): Each country sends a delegation of senior intelligence officials. Martin Green leads the Canadian delegation as part of his role as Assistant Secretary, Intelligence Assessment.
• Description: The Five Eyes Heads of Assessment is an annual summit between the heads of intelligence assessment for the Five Eyes countries. The agenda consists of a range of current and emerging intelligence issues and it is considered the premier analytical exchange between the Five Eyes nations. Hosting the summit is shared on a rotational basis; this year Canada is the host.
• Importance: Must do.

Intelligence Analyst Forum (IAF)

[ * ]

• Attendee(s): Members from across the Canadian national security and intelligence community. [ * ].
• Description: The IAF is an annual event hosted by PCO-IAS. It gathers intelligence and national security practitioners from across the community for a half day of presentations, panels, and networking.
• Importance: Must do.

Other

• Nil

Emergency Preparedness Secretariat (EP) – NSIA Branch

Daniel Rogers, Deputy NSIA – Deputy Secretary, Emergency Preparedness

Key responsibilities by branch and assistant secretary

Joanne Garrah – Acting Assistant Secretary to the Cabinet, Emergency Preparedness (EP)

• Ensure the Minister of Emergency Preparedness receives full support of the public service in the delivery of their mandate, including in supporting the role of Chair of SSE, and delivering on Mandate Letter Commitments directly supported by PCO.
• Provide PCO oversight, coordination, challenge, and support to the federal Emergency Preparedness/Management community.
• Lead the federal public service response to significant federal or national events within the NSIA’s remit.

EP reports to the National Security and Intelligence Advisor to the Prime Minister via the Deputy NSIA.

Key files / issues

All hazards events and emergencies, including the current wildfire situation in Canada

• Coordinate and support across PCO and with federal and other partners on crisis event management (including floods, fires, and hurricanes), national-level exercises, and safety and security for major events in Canada. Support to the PM and Cabinet through acute phases of rapid emergency response, including the current wildfire situation in Canada, through supporting operational responses, policy decisions, and convening and coordinating partners.
  • A standalone briefing is not required.

Public Order Emergency Commission (POEC)

• [ * ].
  • A standalone briefing is not required.

Ongoing PCO support to decision-makers

• EPS is responsible for managing the Cabinet Committee on Safety, Securities and Emergencies (SSE). As with other committees, SSE considers policy proposals, and receives information on policy and program activities. [ * ].
• [ * ].
  • A standalone briefing may be required in the first month of the Clerk’s briefing schedule.

Upcoming decisions

[ * ]

Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements (DFAA)/Flood insurance

• Budget 2023 provided funding to modernize the Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements. PS is working with provinces and territories to ensure timely delivery of services and program sustainability. Budget 2023 also supported the development of a National Flood Insurance model, Flood insurance is not readily available in Canada, making flooding costs the highest claims under DFAA. EPS will closely monitor the rollout of the DFAA and flood insurance work.

[ * ]

[ * ]

Federal Emergency Response Plan (FERP)

• [ * ].
• The Minister of EP has been asked to renew the FERP as per his Mandate Letter, which is led by PS. The FERP is designed to harmonize federal emergency response efforts with those of the Provincial and Territorial governments, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector.

Key events and meetings (July to December)

• Nil

Security & Intelligence Secretariat (S&I)

Daniel Rogers, Deputy NSIA – Deputy Secretary, Emergency Preparedness

Key responsibilities by branch and assistant secretary

Marie-Hélène Chayer – Acting Assistant Secretary to the Cabinet, Security & Intelligence (S&I)

• S&I provides policy advice and support on national security and intelligence matters.
• Co-chair for ADM National Security (NS) Policy, ADM NS Operations, ADM Foreign Interference (FI), and ADM Election Security committees. Support to DM NS, DM-Clerk Committee on FI, DM Critical Incident Response, and DM Election Security.
• Key partners include the IAS, FDP, and Democratic Institutions.
• Directorates:
  • Strategic Policy and Planning coordinates and advises on strategic policy initiatives across the security and intelligence community.
  • Operations coordinates and advises on security and intelligence operations, events, and issues, and provides associated awareness to senior officials.
  • The Task Force on FI provides additional policy coordination and advice on FI.
  • Security Operations (SECOPS) provides physical security support to events such as Deputy Minister and Cabinet retreats, security services during PM tours, operates a 24/7 Crisis Management Cell, and conducts security clearances and related investigations.
  • Review Coordination Unit liaises with National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians (NSICOP) and the National Security and Intelligence Review Agency (NSIRA).

Key files / issues

(Item 1) Counter foreign interference (FI)

• Coordinating efforts in support of counter-FI policy work, including:
  • [ * ].
  • [ * ].
  • [ * ].
  • secretariat support and advice to the Deputy Minister Committee on FI
• [ * ].
• [ * ].
• Providing guidance and support to the intelligence community in order to enhance the dissemination and tracking of intelligence reports.
• Working closely with Public Safety Canada and CSIS to improve protocols and horizontal coordination around the conduct by CSIS of Threat Reduction Measures.
• [ * ].
  • A standalone briefing is not required.

(Item 2) Elections security

• Working with Democratic Institutions, and the Security and Intelligence Threats to Elections (SITE) Task Force to report, disseminate, and advise DM Committee in Intelligence Response on intelligence revealing any foreign interference activities in by-elections.
• Working with communications partners to support the public release of SITE’s unclassified report.
  • Recommend a standalone briefing early in the Clerk’s briefing schedule.

(Item 3) NSICOP and NSIRA review on FI

• Liaising with other government departments and supporting FI reviews by NSICOP and NSIRA.
• NSICOP has invited the NSIA to appear, tentatively scheduled for June 26th.
  • A standalone briefing is not required.

(Item 4) Administrative investigation of the unauthorized disclosure of classified information to the media

• SECOPS is conducting an Administrative investigation into the unauthorized disclosure of classified information to determine whether a PCO employee is involved. [ * ].
  • A standalone briefing is not required.

(Item 5) [ * ]

• A standalone briefing is not required.

(Item 6) Parliamentary security / Ministerial security

• [ * ].
  • A standalone briefing is not required.

(Item 7) [ * ]

• Recommend a standalone briefing early in the Clerk’s briefing schedule.

(Item 8) [ * ]

• A standalone briefing is not required.

Upcoming decisions

Chair of NSIRA letter to the Prime Minister

• By the Prime Minister, as soon as possible
• The Chair of NSIRA wrote the Prime Minister on June 8th requesting the disclosure of all documents protected by Cabinet Confidence for its ongoing review on foreign interference. [ * ].

[ * ]

Research security guidance

• By the Clerk, anticipated to be week of June 26th.
• S&I recommended the Clerk send a letter to the deputy heads of science-based departments to ensure alignment with new guidance related to research security for researchers seeking funds from federal granting agencies.

Key events and meetings (July to December)

• Nil

Foreign and Defence Policy Secretariat (FDP) – NSIA Branch

Stephen de Boer - Foreign and Defence Policy Advisor to the Prime Minister

Secretariat mandate and roles

Serve as the Secretariat to the Cabinet Committee on Canada and the World (CAW):

• FDP coordinates the CAW Forward Agenda, organizes meetings, advises the Chair on Memoranda to Cabinet (MCs), attends meetings, and drafts Committee Recommendations (CRs) and meeting minutes.

Play a challenge function on foreign and defence policy:

• FDP engages departments to ensure foreign and defence policy proposals (including MCs) are timely, high-quality, strategic, cost-effective, consulted across implicated departments, and responsive to national and international priorities.

Support the Prime Minister’s strategic international engagement:

• FDP advises on and supports the Prime Minister’s strategic international engagement through leader-level calls, incoming and outgoing visits, and participation in major summits.

Coordinate the whole-of-government response to international crises:

• FDP convenes departments to develop and implement Canada’s response to major international crises (e.g., Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, instability in Haiti, etc.). This includes ad-hoc support to other Cabinet Committees (e.g., Incident Response Group; Safety, Security and Emergencies)

Key partners:

• FDP works closely with IAS, S&I, EPCRS, ERDP, SDP, LSMP, etc.

FDP reports to the National Security and Intelligence Advisor to the Prime Minister.

Key responsibilities and assistant secretaries

Jordan Zed – Assistant Secretary to the Cabinet, Foreign and Defence Policy (Policy)

• Responsibilities: thematic and multilateral Issues, Africa, Americas, Asia, Europe, Middle East

Martin Loken (Christine Kennedy currently acting) – Assistant Secretary to the Cabinet, Foreign and Defence Policy (Operations)

• Responsibilities: crisis response, defence, Eastern Europe, PM international engagement coordination, GAC and DND corporate, Cabinet Committee on Canada and the World

Key files / issues (non-exhaustive list below; briefs for each available on request as prepared for the new FDPA)

• Ukraine-Russia
• China
• Indo-Pacific
• Haiti
• Iran
• Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
• Afghanistan
• Sudan
• 2030 Agenda for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
• International financial institution reform
• Global south engagement
• Climate finance
• Infrastructure financing
• Defence policy review 
• Canadian military operations, including NATO
• Consular cases
• Mission security

PM decisions (as of June 15, 2023)

To be submitted

• [ * ].

Awaiting PM return

• [ * ].

Major upcoming PM engagements (non-exhaustive list below)

• Nordic Council Meeting in Iceland (Jun 25-26)
• NATO Pre-Summit Dinner in The Hague (Jun 27 TBC )
• Recorded PM message for High-Level Political Forum on SDGs in New York (Jul 10 TBC)
• NATO Summit in Lithuania (Jul 11-12, will likely include bilateral visit in region before)
• World Peace and Liberty Award Ceremony for European Commission President in New York (Jul 21 TBC)
• ASEAN Summit in Indonesia (Sept 5-6, will likely include bilateral visit to Indonesia before)
• G20 Leaders’ Summit in India (Sept 9-10, will likely include bilateral visit in region before)
• UNGA High-Level Week and SDG Summit in New York (Sept 19-21)
• Canada-CARICOM Summit in Ottawa (Oct 11-13 TBC)
• North American Leaders’ Summit in Canada (Nov TBC)
• APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in San Francisco (Nov 15-17)
• COP28 in Dubai (Dec 1-2)

Other

• Over the past year alone, FDP has supported the PM’s international engagement through over 70 leader calls, 64 bilateral meetings, and 29 incoming/outgoing visits and major summits including the North American Leaders’ Summit, G7, G20, ASEAN, NATO, Sommet de la Francophonie, and Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.
• FDP is commencing planning discussions with PMO and GAC on Canada’s hosting of the G7 Summit in 2025, [ * ].
• See FDP Funding Case submitted in March 2023 on expansion of FDP budget and staffing to strengthen capacity to respond to major international crises (e.g., Ukraine, Haiti, Sudan, etc.), and support heightened activity relating to the PM’s international engagement and leadership (including Canada’s hosting of the upcoming Canada-CARICOM Summit, North American Leaders’ Summit, G7, APEC, and other events).

Operations

Kaili Levesque - Deputy Secretary to the Cabinet

Key responsibilities by branch and assistant secretary

Alexis Conrad – Assistant Secretary to the Cabinet, Economic and Regional Development Policy

• Cabinet Committees (Co-Secretary for EIC-A and EIC-B), interdepartmental engagement and management of economic files.
• Key partners within PCO (LHP, LSMP, FDP, IGA, P&P)

Isabella Chan – Assistant Secretary for Social Development Policy

• Co-Secretary for EIC-A and EIC-B; Cabinet Committee on Reconciliation; Subcommittee on Litigation Management
• Key partners within PCO (LHP, LSMP, MOG, IGA, P&P and SP)

Wendy Nixon – Assistant Clerk (responsible for Orders in Council, Operations and Cabinet Affairs)

• Key partners: all Secretariats within PCO and Treasury Board Secretariat (Part B).
• Key responsibilities:
  • Operations and Cabinet Affairs: Working behind the scenes to support the Prime Minister, Ministers and PCO Secretariats in coordinating Cabinet meetings, and in reviewing and distributing Cabinet documents.
  • Orders in Council: Secretariat support to Treasury Board and other PCO partners in the exercise of Governor in Council Authorities. Responsible for supporting various Governor General ceremonies (e.g., swearing in of King’s Privy Council members, royal ascension).

Key files / issues

[ * ]

Pay Administration for the Public Service

• The backlog of pay cases older than one year has grown in recent years. Budget 2023 provided $1.038 billion over two years to eliminate the backlog. [ * ].
• Next Steps: [ * ]. Under the leadership of newly appointed Associate DM Alex Benay, a workplan with more details will be presented to you in July 2023.

India Early Progress Trade Agreement (EPTA)

• After seven rounds of slow and difficult negotiations, on May 8, 2023, Minister Ng and Minister Goyal (of India) separately negotiated aspects of the EPTA that resulted in highly asymmetrical concessions. [ * ]. PCO is working closely with GAC to ensure negotiations are consistent with existing authorities. Minister Ng is continuing to engage with Minister Goyal, including on addition demands from India for inclusion in the EPTA.
• [ * ].

Ministerial Working Group on Net-Zero

• Budget 2023 announced that, by the end of 2023, the Government will publicly outline a concrete plan to improve the efficiency of the impact assessment and permitting processes for major projects, which will include clarifying and reducing timelines, mitigating inefficiencies, and improving engagement and partnerships. The Budget 2023 Record of Decision directed the establishment of a Ministerial Working Group, supported by PCO, to help deliver that commitment. This proposal is pending a decision by the Prime Minister.
• Next Steps: Once PM decision received, PCO will launch this effort quickly to ensure Ministers are in a position to address an ambitious forward agenda.

[ * ]

Climate agenda

• In the coming months, several signature elements of the Government’s climate agenda are up for decision or public launch, including: next steps in the Government’s clean electricity strategy (including publication of the draft Clean Electricity Regulation, negotiations on the Atlantic Loop); [ * ].
• Next Steps: The Government is required to publish an Emissions Reduction Plan (ERP) Progress Report by the end of 2023 on efforts to implement the 2022 ERP and to provide updated projections of Canada’s path to its 2030 target. The Commissioner of Environment and Sustainable Development intends to issue an audit of the design and implementation of the ERP in November 2023.

Canada dental care program

• A comprehensive dental care program to all Canadians with incomes under $90,000, expected to be launched in late 2023 with ramp up to the full eligible population by 2025.
• Next Steps: The program will be delivered by a third-party Administrator, with the request for proposals and contract award proceeding over the summer and fall.

Canada Pharmacare Act

• The Government committed to a national pharmacare program by passing a Canada Pharmacare Act by the end of 2023. [ * ].
• [ * ].

Affordable housing

• The Government committed to reform National Housing Strategy supply programs to (1) address funding shortfalls from rising construction costs, and (2) implement a co-developed Urban, Rural and Northern Indigenous Housing Strategy that will address the needs of off-reserve Indigenous peoples not served.
• [ * ].

Task Force on Services to Canadians

• In June 2022, the Prime Minister launched a Ministerial Task Force to help reduce delays around passport processing, immigration services and at Canadian airports, [ * ].
• Next Steps: Implementation is underway [ * ].

Reconciliation agenda

• Claims against the Crown from Indigenous groups have led to a significant increase in the contingent liability recorded. These include alleged underfunding of police services, child and family services, education, housing, etc.
  • Next Steps: Public Safety is co-developing legislation on First Nations policing while Indigenous Services is co-developing legislation on safe drinking water. Both intended to advance long-term reform and [ * ].
• The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act Action Plan was tabled in the House on June 21, 2023.
  • Next Steps: Implementation of the final Action Plan including the 181 measures from 28 organizations will be done in consultation with Indigenous peoples through prioritizing key deliverables over a period of 12-18 months.

Immigration, refugees and citizenship

• Strategic Immigration Review underway [ * ] to undertake a policy review of “the functioning of Canada’s immigration system to better respond to the needs of a 21st century immigration system”. The Minister will release a “what we heard” report [ * ].
• 2024 to 2026 Immigration Levels Plan to determine the target number and ranges of new permanent residents to be Admitted under the economic, family reunification, and humanitarian immigration streams for the coming year(s). The annual exercise is a major undertaking [ * ].
• Humanitarian efforts to respond to global humanitarian crises, including in the Americas (Haiti and at the US Southern border), Sudan, and Ukraine and Uganda. [ * ] commitment from President Biden’s visit to Ottawa in March 2023 in exchange for an earlier coming into force of the updated Safe Third Country Agreement.

E-Cabinet modernization

• Under the secure, hybrid Cabinet model, the E-Cabinet system is the sole means by which Cabinet material is transmitted to the Prime Minister, Ministers, and officials. The system is based on an aging platform that leverages Government of Canada secure infrastructure (GCSI, PCO Cabnet and GCdocs).
• In the short- and medium-term, PCO (Operations and Cabinet Affairs, as well as Corporate Services Branch) is investing in stabilizing the system, while developing a longer-term modernization strategy.

[ * ]

Key events and meetings (July to December)

UN Secretary General’s (UNSG) Climate Ambition Summit, September 20, 2023, New York (during UNGA High-Level Week)

• UNSG urging leaders from governments, business, cities and regions, civil society and finance to come with new, tangible and credible climate action to accelerate pace of change. PM has agreed to host a Global Carbon Pricing Challenge event on the margins of the Summit.
• Can be delegated.

Weekly Orders in Council “walk-arounds” will happen throughout the summer for time-sensitive Governor-in-Council approvals. These are as needed, in support of normal government operations.

Other

• Nil

Plans & Consultations

Michael Vandergrift - Deputy Secretary to the Cabinet

Key responsibilities by branch and assistant secretary

Antoine Brunelle-Côté – Assistant Secretary Liaison Secretariat for Macroeconomic Policy (LSMP)

• Economic and fiscal advice to the PM and Clerk
• Lead the federal budget process within PCO, organize Budget Coordination Committee with Finance
• Advice to PM on matters relating to collective bargaining
• Analysis and monitoring of the economic context e.g., inflation, labour market, housing market

Siobhan Harty – Assistant Secretary, Priorities and Planning (P&P)

• Support and advice to the PM for Cabinet, ARC, Cabinet retreats
• Strategic advice on the management of the Government’s agenda
• DM policy committees, DM Weekly, CCDM, DM Retreats
• Medium-term planning and coordination of transition
• Canada-Australia Public Policy Initiative, Canada-UK Public Policy Forum

Jennifer Miller – Assistant Secretary, Results and Delivery (RDU)

• Mandate Letter tracking of 769 commitments
• Data- and policy- informed dashboards and visualizations to support decision-making
• Maintains line of sight to results achieved for signature initiatives and priority areas
• Oversight and coordination of digital government including major digital transformation projects
• Service improvement including potential support for sub-committee of ministers
• Departmental results strategies and frameworks

Key files / issues

Spending review

• Budget 2023 announced spending reductions on consulting, other professional services, and travel by roughly 15% as well as a roughly 3% reduction of eligible spending by departments and agencies. [ * ].
  • Is a standalone briefing recommended? No

Collective bargaining

• As of May 12, approximately 60% of the CPA and separate agencies have reached agreements with the federal government. Bargaining agents still in negotiations include the National Police Federation (representing the RCMP), the Professional Institute of the Public Service of Canada (PIPSC), representing several bargaining units but most notably Computer Systems (IT), and the Customs and Immigration Union (CIU), representing the Border Services Group.
  • Is a standalone briefing recommended? No.

Follow-up to the June 2023 DM retreat

• Build on the discussion and outcomes of the DM Retreat to [ * ].
• Propose overall structure for DM policy committees; options for purpose and forward agenda for DM Weekly; approach to and forward calendar of CCDM and DMC meetings.
  • A standalone briefing is recommended to discuss a proposal that P&P will prepare.

Cabinet retreat and second part of the Mandate

• Planning the agenda for the summer Cabinet retreat (August 21-23)
• [ * ].

Mandate letter tracking

• Lead ongoing tracking of the 769 mandate letter commitments, collecting, analyzing, and creating visualizations organizationally and horizontally on progress 3-4 cycles per fiscal year to inform decision making (e.g., Budget analysis, priority setting exercises)
  • Is a standalone briefing recommended? Yes. Proposed Timing: June 2023

Upcoming decisions

Cabinet retreat agenda and products

• July and August

Off-cycle funding decisions

• Off-cycle funding decisions will require Prime Minister approval over the coming months.
• LSMP works with FIN to track upcoming funding decisions. The Clerk’s office is kept informed through the Clerk’s weekly tracker of upcoming notes, and an off-cycle pressures list.

[ * ]

Key events and meetings (July to December)

Cabinet Retreat, August 21-23, Charlottetown, Cabinet, Chiefs of Staff and PCO/PMO

• Must do

[ * ]

[ * ]

2023 Fall Economic Statement (FES) and Budget 2024 processes

• Process will start in the Fall to prepare for the FES and Budget 2024.
• [ * ].

Plans and Consultations – Communications & Consultations

Laurie-Anne Kempton - Assistant Secretary to the Cabinet

Key responsibilities by branch and assistant secretary

Head of communications

PCO Communications and Consultations has three over-arching and inter-related mandates:

• The Secretariat plays a central role in managing horizontal Government of Canada communications, including communications planning and issues management functions, working with communications leads across the federal government.
• The team provides dedicated communications support, including traditional, digital and social media products, to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office (DPMO), the Clerk, the Deputy Clerk, and the PCO-led portfolios, including Intergovernmental Affairs, Emergency Preparedness and the Leader of the Government in the House of Commons. It also plays a central leadership role in providing strategic direction and alignment across all Government of Canada communications themes, priorities, and functions.
• Leadership of the communications community – the Assistant Secretary serves as the Head of Communications for the community. As well, the Communications Community Office (CCO) supports the DM champion of the Communications Community (current champion: Valerie Gideon). CCO also supports the development and modernization of communications across the federal government.

Strategic communications

Working closely with the PMO Communications team, and through a well-established network of contacts in departments, PCO Strategic Communications plays a central role in managing Government of Canada communications, and issues management. The team also plays an important role in ensuring direct communications support for the PM’s international travel.

The Secretariat reviews Cabinet presentations; communications plans and products, Memoranda to Cabinet, and works across the GoC to help coordinates the delivery of communications efforts in support of Government policy and program delivery.

PCO analysts also assess communications implications of, and facilitate issues management related to, Access to Information and Privacy requests and media inquiries.

Media centre

The Media Centre offers a full suite of media monitoring services, through the surveillance of print, broadcast and social media channels and the preparation of daily media products and analyses for PMO and PCO clients. It also offers media relations support, including the coordination of incoming media requests and logistical planning of media events. It also leads a whole-of-government Media Relations Community of Practice.

PM and visual communications

The team consists of four main groups – PM Products; Visual Communications; PM Social Media; PM Web; which collaborate closely to support the Prime Minister’s, Deputy Prime Minister’s and PCO Ministers’ communications needs. The teams liaise daily with PMO Communications to confirm upcoming events and product requirements, and to ensure all products are of the highest quality and reflect the PM’s voice and style.

Ministerial communications

The Ministerial Communications team provides support to the ministers within the PCO portfolio. Presently, this includes the following ministers:

• Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities
• President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada and Minister of Emergency Preparedness
• Leader of the Government in the House of Commons
• Quebec Lieutenant

Ministerial Communications collaborates within the Communications and Consultations Secretariat to provide service in the areas of strategic communications, media relations, announcements, social media, visual communications, public opinion research, editing and translation.

Corporate and Clerks’ communications

The Corporate and Clerk’s Communications team provides a full suite of communications support to the Clerk and the Deputy Clerk. To support the Clerk and Deputy Clerk in advancing their key priorities, various vehicles are used:

• Messages to the public service and PCO staff (via email, video etc.);
• Social media and web content (Internet and Intranet); and,
• Events and speaking opportunities (including PCO town halls).

Public opinion research, advertising and digital

Public opinion research

PCO was allocated $2M per year in Budget 2016, to conduct public opinion research (POR) with Canadians. PCO surveys approximately 48,000 Canadians and conducts 144 focus groups per year and supplements this custom POR with purchased syndicated studies (for example, research focused on Indigenous peoples).

As per the Communications Policy, the Clerk, as Deputy Head of PCO, must approve POR requests.

Advertising campaigns

The 2023-2024 Government of Canada advertising plan has been approved. This year’s projected spending is approximated at $90M across the GC. This is a reduction from the last 3 years. 

Advertising campaigns will be used to reach audiences on many issues across 50+ departments, including key government priorities, for example, DND recruitment, climate literacy and action, expansion of the Dental Care Program and mental health supports.  

Digital communications coordination

Government of Canada websites are experiencing ongoing distributed denial-of-service attacks. Departments using the enterprise Managed Web Service (supported by Principal Publisher, Service Canada) are better protected from attacks. TBS’s Digital Transformation Office and the Principal Publisher are developing a plan to bring more GC websites into the Managed Web Services, to increase stability and avoid outages.

Rapid changes in the online ecosystem and platforms (e.g., mis-and disinformation, AI, online harms) and waning public trust require the Government of Canada to review how to use our social media properties effectively.

Communications Community Office (CCO)

The CCO is a horizontal organization that supports communications professionals across the Government of Canada. CCO helps communicators enhance their skills and abilities and grow their careers by offering a variety of services, including learning events, communications tools and news, staffing processes, and networking opportunities.

The CCO works closely with departments, central agencies, communities of practice, and other functional communities, as well as with public and private sector partners to get ahead of the trends and develop the skills needed to keep pace with the speed of communications.

The CCO is funded by communications branches from departments and agencies across the Government of Canada. That support allows us to offer a variety of services to help communicators stay on top of changes in the field and reach their professional goals.

[ * ]

[ * ]

Key events and meetings (July to December)

July, location TBD, Ministers Anand, Champagne and Jaczek

• Strategic Tanker Transportation Capability refueling aircraft purchase
• This contract, valued at approximately $3.6 billion, includes the acquisition of four modern aircraft that will provide air-to-air refueling, strategic airlift, aeromedical evacuations, and strategic Government of Canada transport.

September, NCR, public servants

• 2023 GCWCC campaign launch event (Date TBC)
• Communications Community Office Learning Days (September 13)
  • This event marks the return to an in-person conference for all federal communicators since February

September 25, NCR, public servants in the HR community

• Michelle C. Comeau Human Resources Awards
• Recognize the commitments and achievements of the HR community
• Clerk to deliver remarks and present awards

September/October, Ottawa, ADMs

• Meet and greet with ADMs organized by PCO (PSR) (exact date TBC)
  • Clerk to deliver remarks, articulate leadership priorities for the year ahead and participate in Q&A
• Orientation for ADMs (exact date TBC)
• ADM Steering Committee of the Policy Community Conference, policy retreat (exact date TBC)
  • Engage with ADMs on policy and government priorities

October 24, NCR, public servants

• Public Service Awards of Excellence
• Recognize the achievements of the public service
• Clerk to deliver remarks and present awards as the head of the public service

Senior Personnel Secretariat (SPS)

Donnalyn McClymont - Deputy Secretary to the Cabinet, Senior Personnel and Public Service Renewal

Key responsibilities by branch and assistant secretary

Rima Hamoui – Assistant Secretary to the Cabinet, Senior Personnel

• Selection Processes, appointments and systems
  • Manage and coordinate open, transparent and merit-based selection processes for most Governor in Council (GIC) appointments, including chairing selection committees and identifying qualified candidates that represent the diversity of the Canadian population (some 600-800 appointments per year).
  • Work with departments and the Office of the Prime Minister (PMO) for vacancy management purposes, and garner decisions to fill vacancies.
  • Ensure due diligence on candidates and other Administrative requirements are carried out to support Cabinet/Prime Minister (PM) consideration and approval of GIC appointments.
  • Maintain the data systems and website that serve as the backbone of GIC selection processes and appointments.
  • Provide advice and support to the PM and PMO for on-going improvements and necessary changes to selection and appointments processes, such as accessibility of PCO’s Appointment website, improving candidate communications throughout the appointment process, etc.
• Compensation and leadership development
  • Administer compensation, including classification of positions, and the Terms and Conditions of employment applying to GIC appointees.
  • Administer the Performance Management Program for GIC appointees and individuals paid in the GX salary range, including deputy ministers (DM), associate deputy ministers, chief executive officers (CEOs) of Crown corporations, heads of agencies, some heads of mission and public office holders (e.g., Clerks of the Senate and House of Commons).
  • Act as secretariat for the Committee of Senior Officials (COSO).
  • Support the Clerk in his recommendations to the PM on DM appointments.
  • Support the Clerk in naming DM Champions and membership of DM committees.
  • Support the development of the DM cadre and other leadership positions (CEOs, heads of small agencies), including orientation of new appointees, retirement planning, on-going learning needs and information sharing.
  • Act as secretariat to the Independent Advisory Board for Senate Appointments (IABSA) in its role to provide non-binding, merit-based recommendations to the PM on Senate appointments and support PMO in the appointment of Senators. 
• Strategies and planning
  • Provide advice and support to departments, the Clerk, and the PM on labour relations cases involving GIC appointees, informed by principles of procedural fairness and safeguarding personal information in accordance with the Privacy Act and other frameworks.
    • [ * ].
  • Review and input into the development of Memoranda to Cabinet (MCs), draft legislation, budget proposals and PM/Clerk briefing notes with GIC appointment implications.
• Key partners within PCO:
  • OIC division (coordination for GG signing of appointment and compensation OICs);
  • Plans & Consultations (transmit to Ministers documents for Cabinet approval of GIC appointments and meeting management documents to the PM);
  • Communications (issuance of News Releases on applicable appointments and response to media inquiries relating to GIC appointees);
  • Security-Operations (process due diligence and security clearances, as required, for GIC appointees);
  • Legislation and House Planning (support the passage by Parliament of certain GIC appointments, as required);
  • Operations, Machinery of Government, Security & Intelligence (collaboration on policy initiatives that have GIC appointment implications); and
  • Democratic Institutions [ * ].

Key files / issues (outstanding PM notes)

[ * ]

Key events and meetings (July to December)

Fall 2023 – Meeting of the Committee of Senior Officials (COSO)

• [ * ].

Other

• Annex A: GIC appointments placemat
• Annex B: Clerk information note [ * ].

Public Service Renewal Secretariat (PSR)

Donnalyn McClymont - Deputy Secretary to the Cabinet, Senior Personnel and Public Service Renewal

Key responsibilities by branch and assistant secretary

Tim Pettipas – Assistant Secretary

• The Public Service Renewal Secretariat (PSR) is responsible for supporting the Clerk in the role as Head of the Public Service and for advancing one of PCO’s three main roles: fostering a high-performing and accountable Public Service.
• PSR is both an operational and advisory Secretariat:
  • It provides advice to the Prime Minister, Clerk, Deputy Clerk and Deputy Secretary on a whole-of-government approach to public service management and renewal; and,
  • It develops and implements strategies to advance this work and to ensure that the range of activities and initiatives being undertaken across the enterprise align with the Clerk’s and Prime Minister’s priorities and objectives in these areas. 
• Under the Public Service Employment Act, the Clerk is required to submit an Annual Report to the Prime Minister on the State of the Public Service. In addition, the Clerk chairs the Board of Management and Renewal, the Deputy Minister Committee with the mandate to advance the management agenda and the renewal of the Public Service.
• To achieve results, PSR collaborates with a range of partners and supporting structures:
  • Key PCO Partners: Senior Personnel, Priorities and Planning, Intergovernmental Affairs, Corporate Affairs, Communications
  • Key OGD Partners: Central Agencies and key enabling departments, Communities and networks (horizontal, functional communities, Diversity and inclusion networks, Anti-Racism Secretariats); Regions (Regional Federal Councils); Renewal and departmental champions; and, industry, academia, provinces and territories.
  • Other Deputy Minister-level committees: Deputy Ministers’ Network on Renewal, Clerk’s Contact Group on Mental Health, Canada School of Public Service Advisory Committee, Public Service Management Advisory Committee.

Key files / issues

PSR’s program of work is organized across three core areas of focus: advancing the core management agenda; establishing and implementing a framework to support the renewal of the public service; and, providing focused leadership and direction to address significant emerging public service-wide management and renewal issues.

Advancing the core management agenda

• PSR monitors, connects and advances work underway on core management issues such as:
  • Reconciliation and progress on anti-racism, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility;
  • Recruitment, development and retention of talent;
  • Workplace wellbeing and mental health;
  • Optimizing hybrid work models;
  • Service excellence and delivering results for Canadians; and
  • Building awareness of the values and ethics that underpin the public service as an institution.
• PSR oversees the preparation of the Clerk’s Annual Report to the Prime Minister on the Public Service of Canada.
• PSR provides strategic advice and secretariat services to support senior governance committees most notably the Clerk-chaired Board of Management and Renewal.

Providing focused leadership and direction to address significant and emerging public service-wide management and renewal issues

• PCO and the Clerk often provide early leadership to address significant and emerging management issues through the establishment of public service-wide direction such as through the Safe Workspaces Initiative (2018) that reviewed the public service-wide harassment framework and identified actions to better support employees.
• Current priorities in this area are: establishing and communicating expectations for the implementation of hybrid work models; and, developing and implementing the Call to Action on Anti-Racism, Equity and Inclusion in the Federal Public Service.

Establishing and implementing a framework to support the renewal of the Public Service

• Public Service renewal is constant and has historically been directed through a range of approaches (e.g., PS2000, La Releve, Blueprint 2020). These initiatives provide a vision and frame to advance enterprise-wide change.
• Beyond2020, established in 2019, is the current renewal frame with a focus on mindsets and behaviours to support a Public Service that is more agile, more inclusive and better equipped.
• While this frame served the public service well during the pandemic, the Clerk, in the 29th Annual Report, signaled a need to move to a new stage of renewing the public service beyond Beyond2020.
• PSR is currently undertaking targeted outreach with groups across the country, both internal and external to the public service, to hear their views on current opportunities and challenges.

Upcoming decisions

[ * ]

Actions to support 30th Annual Report tabling and publication

• The 30th Annual Report to the Prime Minister on the Public Service of Canada covers April 2022 to March 2023. It is anticipated that it will be tabled in either July or August 2023.
• Once the report is tabled, the Clerk will need to send messages to deputies, public servants, and other stakeholders.
• Clerk’s Communications undertakes a broader communications approach, including social media content.

Board of Management and Renewal forward agenda

• The mandate of the Board of Management and Renewal (BoMR) is to advance the management agenda and renewal of the Public Service.
• [ * ].

Key events and meetings (July to December)

[ * ]

Key events

• Michelle C. Comeau Human Resources Awards - Week of September 25, 2023 (TBC), Location TBC , Public servants in the HR community.
  • Recognizes the commitments and achievements of the HR community.
  • Clerk Charette attended in 2022. It is recommended the Clerk attend but it can be delegated to the Deputy Clerk.
• Public Service Awards of Excellence - October 24, 2023, Location TBC, Public Service Awards of Excellence Recipients
  • Led by Treasury Board Secretariat, the Clerk traditionally attends and presents the awards to recipients. It is recommended that the Clerk attend.

Other

• HR, etc. (if relevant)

Privy Council Office Legal Services Sector

Jodie van Dieen - Counsel to the Clerk of the Privy Council and Assistant Deputy Minister, Department of Justice

Key responsibilities

Jolene Harvey – Deputy Assistant Deputy Minister and Executive Director
Talitha Nabbali – Director and General Counsel
Privy Council Office Legal Services Sector (PCO LSS):

• Providing legal advice and legal services to the Privy Council Office (PCO) and its portfolio ministers, in support of Cabinet and whole-of-government decision-making as well as on a wide range of program, policy, legislation and litigation activities, including:
  • Providing legal advice on the operation of Cabinet decision-making; Governor in Council (GIC) and Senate appointments; House of Commons and Senate agenda and activities; intergovernmental relations; and other policy matters;
  • Supporting the Clerk in his role as custodian of confidences of the King’s Privy Council (Cabinet confidences) from current and previous ministries; and
  • Supporting PCO in litigation relating to its responsibilities such as: Parliament; elections; intergovernmental matters; youth and decisions under the Access to Information Act and the Privacy Act as well as assisting PCO and PCO officials when they are named or otherwise implicated in litigation proceedings.
• Providing legal advice and services to the Office of the Secretary to the Governor General (OSGG).

Key files / issues

[ * ]

Other

• PCO LSS is a Justice organization co-located within PCO and is comprised of both PCO and Justice employees.
• Funding for PCO LSS is provided through a combination of Justice A-base and cost recovery pursuant to a Memorandum of Understanding for the Provision of Legal Services between Justice and PCO.

Intergovernmental Affairs Secretariat

Tushara Williams - Deputy Minister, Intergovernmental Affairs

Key responsibilities by branch and assistant secretary

Jeannine Ritchot – Assistant Deputy Minister for Multilateral Relations

• Support on policy development, FPT strategies, constitutional matters, and multilateral relationships
• Secretary to the Cabinet Sub-Committee on Intergovernmental Coordination (SCIC)

Veronica Ramrattan - Assistant Deputy Minister for Bilateral Relations

• Support on bilateral and regional issues, including bilateral meetings
• Lead the development and implementation of the Atlantic Growth Strategy

Jay Khosla - Assistant Deputy Minister for Atlantic Loop and Internal Trade

• The Atlantic Loop – a critical project to enable coal phase out, net zero in Atlantic Canada
• Internal Trade - Lead the federal approach on internal trade, to reduce trade barriers to trade and meet Canada’s obligations under the Canadian Free Trade Agreement
• IGA involvement on major projects, regulatory reviews

Key files / issues

IGA lead

Atlantic Loop

• [ * ]. Early strategic discussions may be required to advance negotiations and manage linkages to roll out of Clean Electricity Regulations.
  • A stand-alone briefing recommended [ * ].

Constitutional issues

• Provide advice and guidance to the federal government on use of the notwithstanding clause by PTs and upcoming court decision in the Nourel Hak et al. v. Attorney General of Québec case
  • A stand-alone briefing recommended over next 3 months

Internal trade

• Implementation of the Federal Action Plan to Strengthen Internal Trade, (B2021 commitment).
• Development of a Federal Approach to Mutual Recognition, (B2023 commitment)
  • A stand-alone briefing is not necessary at this time. A brief on the Federal Approach to Mutual Recognition [ * ] may be scheduled later in the year.

Reconciliation

• Work with ISC, CIRNA and Justice to develop an FPT-I Framework on engagement and working with PTs on reconciliation initiatives.
  • A stand-alone briefing is not necessary at this time.

IGA support

Health and dental care (Ops/SDP lead)

• Support to Health Canada in the negotiation of bilateral agreements for increased federal health funding in key priority areas. PTs have a July 1 deadline to submit draft action plans, which are required before final bilateral agreements can be signed. [ * ].
• In advance of July 10-12 COF meeting, important to demonstrate progress on health agreements.
• Support implementation of the Canadian Dental Care Plan, including opt-out request by Quebec.

Climate and energy (Ops/Climate Secretariat lead)

• Lead the FPT strategy for the implementation of clean electricity regulations (with ECCC/NRCan).
• [ * ].

[ * ]

Public Safety (Emergency Preparedness and Ops lead)

• [ * ].
• Implementation of recommendations from the Mass Casualty Commission report.
• Implementation of the Firearms buyback program.

Wildfires (Emergency Preparedness)

• Requests for assistance

Upcoming decisions

Health

• [ * ].
• Determination of next steps if certain PTs do not provide action plans by the July 1 deadline.

[ * ]

Key events and meetings (July to December)

• July 10-14, Winnipeg, Council of the Federation meeting
  • The Council of the Federation is comprised of Premiers and is currently chaired by Manitoba.
  • Premiers wrote to the PM on June 15 urgently seeking details on when the replacement for the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP) will be forthcoming.
• July 11, 2023, Winnipeg, FPT Clerks and Cabinet Secretaries (CCS)
  • The CCS meeting is a regular discussion among FPT heads of the public services to discuss issues related to FPT policy and public service leadership.
  • You will co-chair the meeting. Your attendance is confirmed.
• July 17-18, 2023, Moncton, Atlantic Growth Strategy Senior Leadership meeting
  • Annual meeting chaired by Minister LeBlanc with the four Atlantic Premiers and federal ministers from Atlantic Canada. The agenda is expected to focus on Accelerating the Atlantic Advantage through: Managing population growth and attracting/retaining a strong workforce; spurring increased productivity/competitiveness; and transition to a net-zero, green economy.
• October 3, 2023, elections in Manitoba and the Northwest Territories.

Corporate Services Branch

Matthew Shea - Assistant Secretary to the Cabinet, Ministerial Services and Corporate Affairs

Key responsibilities

• The Corporate Services Branch (CSB) provides all corporate services to PCO, PMO, DPMO, and three additional Ministers’ offices. In addition, it provides services to several arms-length bodies including commissions of inquiry.
• CSB provides a mix of traditional corporate services, unique services that are atypical, and services to other departments and senior officials.
  • Traditional corporate services include Finance, Human Resources, Information Technology (IT), IT Security, Accommodations, Access to Information and Privacy (ATIP), and Information Management (IM).
  • Unique services include PM tour and audio/video support, support to the PM residence, PM correspondence, Cabinet logistical support, PM switchboard, etc.
  • Services to other departments and senior officials includes Secure Communications, the Concierge Service, Ministers’ Residence Support, Ministers’ Regional Offices, and MOUs to provide corporate support to several organizations.
• In recent years, the services provided by CSB have evolved significantly. In particular, CSB has added additional services to other departments, created and supported a new community of practice across government, taken an increased role in supporting Ministers and senior officials across government, provided corporate services to a number of small organizations, and added a significant regional footprint, with 16 offices across the country.

Key files / issues

Secure communications for national leadership

• Provides multiple secure communication options that allow users the option to participate in secret level conversations via secure video and or secure mobile, as well as secure remote access laptops which allow Ministers and Deputy Ministers access to Cabinet documents as well as the option of sending and receiving secret level documents via their GCSI emails.
• [ * ].
  • Is a standalone briefing recommended? No.

[ * ]

Budget 2023 reductions

• Government-wide reductions were announced as part of Budget 2023, which include reductions to spending on consulting, other professional services and travel of roughly [ * ], as well as a roughly [ * ] reduction of eligible spending by departments and agencies by 2026-27. While PCO has not formally received its target, the reductions are estimated to total approximately [ * ] in 2023-24 increasing to approximately [ * ] once fully phased in.
• In keeping with previous review exercises, it is proposed that over the summer, branches be provided with a reduction target, and that each branch develop reduction proposals to fulfill this target. The CFO has met with the Deputy Clerk bilaterally and with Deputy Secretaries as a group to propose an approach, and there was agreement on the principles and approach.
  • Is a standalone briefing recommended? Yes

Workload migration

• As part of a broader digital transformation to improve the resilience and performance of PCO’s tools, the department is investing in a move to Cloud services and a migration of its legacy data centre. This project, with significant financial support from the Treasury Board Secretariat, is one of the single largest financial commitments for the department.
• This summer, PCO will migrate its email into the Cloud, marking a major milestone in our digital transformation.
  • Is a standalone briefing recommended? No

Safe Space Initiative

• The “Your Voice Matters” initiative was launched in October 2021 to offer safe spaces for BIPOC employees and allies to share their workplace lived experiences in an anonymous way. PCO hired a consultant to collect employees’ feedback with respect to concerns on systemic racism, discrimination, unconscious bias and other barriers to equality that exist in the workplace.
• Following consultations, a report was developed by the consultant. Recommendations have been developed to address issues and challenges raised, and to advance the Call to Action internally, grouped in six areas: 1) new structures, 2) improved tools and services, 3) opportunities and hiring practices, 4) leadership responses to the Call to Action, 5) foster trust with employees, and 6) data availability.
• An all-staff email is planned for the week of June 19 from the Clerk and Deputy Clerk, releasing a redacted version of the report. The Deputy Clerk will be meeting with PCO’s Employment Equity and Diversity Advisory Committee on June 26, with a follow up meeting for BIPOC employees and allies soon after.
  • Is a standalone briefing recommended? Yes, the Deputy Clerk may wish to brief at a bilat.

Upcoming decisions

Executive Performance Management Program – ratings and budget scenario

• PCO’s ADM Governance Committee met on May 23, 2023 to discuss proposed ratings for all EX-01 to 03 who do not report to a Deputy Secretary/Deputy Minister. The meeting focused primarily on ensuring consistency of ratings. Following the meeting, Deputy Secretaries reviewed and approved all of the ratings for their Executives who were discussed at the ADM Committee and also provided the ratings for their direct reports (Assistant Secretaries and Chiefs of Staff).
• CSB has rolled up the ratings for the Clerk/Deputy Clerk approval and will be finalizing the budget scenario for the approval of the Clerk in early July.
• Once approved, the ratings will be communicated to executives and the information will be sent to the Pay Centre for processing and pay out.
• You will be asked to sign the formal budget allocation in the coming weeks, once OCHRO opens the system for departments to input their ratings. 

Reserve allocation

• PCO’s initial budget authorities for 2023-24 are $183.3M (excluding Commissions) including the Departmental Reserve and funding to enhance PCO’s capacity for urgent priorities. Branches have been provided their opening budgets. Approximately $9M in funding is currently available to address financial pressures and investments during 2023-24. Additional funding is likely to be available later in the fiscal year due to slippage on planned activities. Branches have submitted business cases for additional funding and prioritization discussions are currently underway.
• A memo is being prepared to propose initial allocations from the reserve for your decision. 

[ * ] – Independent Special Rapporteur/Commission of Inquiry

• The Independent Special Rapporteur (ISR) was established by OIC April 5, 2023. On May 23, 2023, the ISR presented his report on interim recommendations recommending against a public inquiry, and announcing plans for public hearings. On June 9, the ISR announced his resignation.
• [ * ].

Other

• PCO Finances and Human Resources
  • CSB is preparing a deck for information and can provide a briefing at the Clerk’s convenience. There may be value in combining this with the discussion on Budget 2023 reductions.

Machinery of Government and Democratic Institutions

Paul MacKinnon - Deputy Secretary to the Cabinet, Governance

Key responsibilities by branch and assistant secretary

Al Sutherland – Assistant Secretary for Machinery of Government and Democratic Institutions

• Machinery advice to the Clerk/PM; support for the Crown in Canada; interpretation of Westminster conventions; ministerial ethics
• Cabinet, DM Weekly, medium-term planning, transition
• Support the Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities in his responsibilities related to democratic institutions

Julia Aceti – Assistant Secretary to the Cabinet for Legislation and House Planning

• Support the Prime Minister and Government House Leader in coordinating and managing the Government’s legislative and parliamentary agenda.
• Government lead in the coordination of responses to Order Paper Questions and Petitions.
• Secretariat for the Cabinet Committee on Operations.

Key files / issues

[ * ]

Protecting democracy

• Priorities underway to [ * ]; develop tools to build resilience to mis- and disinformation within Canada’s public service.
• Following the 30-day LeBlanc-Charette report, updates will be provided on the work being done to protect Canada’s democracy (e.g. making SITE a permanent entity, reviewing the Cabinet Directive on the Critical Election Incident Public Protocol)
• Standalone brief recommended in summer 2023.

Ad-hoc committee on the Winnipeg Lab

• Committee created to consider sensitive documents; members are currently reviewing the relevant documents and is expected to consider its approach [ * ].
• A standalone briefing is recommended once the committee’s agenda for the fall is known.

Upcoming decisions

[ * ]

Other

• Appointment of a new Director of Operations, Machinery of Government (EX03)

Impact and Innovation Unit (IIU) / Impact Canada

Nathalie G Drouin – Deputy Clerk of the Privy Council and Associate Secretary to the Cabinet

Key responsibilities by branch and assistant secretary

Rodney Ghali – Assistant Secretary, Impact and Innovation Unit

• Specialize in the use of novel, data-driven public policy methods to address gaps in effectively translating policy objectives into meaningful and measurable outcomes for Canadians
  • Two key business lines employed to accomplish this objective:
    • Impact Canada challenges, and
    • Applied behavioural science and advanced policy research
  • See Impact Canada annex for more information
• Hold “whole-of-government” programmatic Terms & Conditions that allow for formal engagement with the IIU in order to develop and implement Impact Canada Challenges
  • The PCO Minister responsible for the Impact Canada Terms & Conditions is the President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada
• Key thematic areas of work, including federal partners (within and outside of PCO):
  • Public trust, stressors and misinformation: PCH, PHAC, PCO (DI and IGA)
  • Climate action: ECCC, NRCan, AAFC, PCO (Ops)
  • Agriculture: AAFC, Canadian Space Agency, PCO (Ops)
  • Health, public health and well-being: PHAC, Canadian Space Agency, PCO (Ops)
  • Safe and inclusive communities: CMHC, IRCC, Public Safety, PCO (Ops)
  • Digital adoption: ISED

Key files / issues

Public trust, stressors and misinformation

• This program of applied behavioural science focuses on trust in specific areas (government information, governing institutions, and among Canadians), as well as stressors on these types of trust (e.g., social cohesion, digital information ecosystems). The research is centered on the multifaceted impacts of trust and associated stressors across multiple policy domains whereby key connections between waning trust, its impact on policy implementation and the health of democracy in Canada have surfaced.
• The applied nature of this work is designed to produce near real-time research findings across multiple waves of national level data collection, rapid on-line experiments and in-field trials. Together, the data, insights and conclusions help create a precise understanding of Canadians’ attitudes, behaviours, and trust in government and society, all of which are then translated for decision-makers into policy advice, program interventions, service delivery enhancements and/or communication strategies within the federal family.

Supporting climate action

• Program of Applied Research on Climate Action (PARCA): in partnership with ECCC and NRCan, the IIU is leading a comprehensive strategy to: 1) learn about how Canadians are thinking, feeling and acting in response to climate change and the risks it creates, and 2) develop and test behaviourally-informed solutions with the potential to reduce GHG emissions and promote climate adaptation at the individual and community level. This work is generating new insights in real time to inform policy development, program design, and public communications. 
• Impact Canada Challenges: in partnership with AAFC, the IIU is designing the Agricultural Methane Reduction Challenge, an initiative designed to advance innovative, low-cost, and scalable practices and technologies that contribute to the net reduction of enteric methane emissions in the cow-calf sector. This initiative will be launched in fall 2023.
• Data and Impact Measurement: also in partnership with AAFC, the IIU will be implementing a series of novel pathfinder projects to support national and international reporting, improve the evidence base for decision-making, and more effectively target the federal investments needed to continue accelerating progress in areas of climate change mitigation in the agricultural sector. Expected to begin implementation in fall 2023, this work will focus on tracking progress of beneficial management practice (BMP) adoption in the areas of methane and nitrous oxide.

Upcoming decisions

Canadian Action Plan on Combatting Hate (CAPCH)

• CAPCH is designed to demonstrate federal leadership, enhance collaboration and strengthen approaches across federal organizations charged with implementing prevention, protection and law enforcement measures to combat hate. Given the behavioural underpinnings associated with hate, the IIU has proposed an expansion of its work tied to Public Trust, Stressors and Misinformation and work with federal partners, including those in public safety and national security, to intervene on the drivers and consequences of hateful rhetoric and hate-motivated behaviour in online and real-world environments. [ * ].

Key events and meetings (July to December)

Engagement of FPT Clerks and Cabinet Secretaries on public trust, stressors and misinformation

• In partnership with PCO-IGA, it is being recommended that the IIU’s work on public trust, stressors and misinformation become part of a series of in-depth discussions with FPT Clerks and Cabinet Secretaries over the course of 2023 and 2024. There are two more rounds of data collection planned in the 2023-24 fiscal year, which could form the foundation of thematic discussions curated to the interests of FPT Clerks and Cabinet Secretaries. The first meeting of Clerks and Cabinet Secretaries where this will be discussed is scheduled for July 2023 in Manitoba.

Other

• The IIU is a multidisciplinary team possessing specialized skills sets (e.g., behavioural science, data science, advanced policy research, impact measurement) with team members recruited from across Canada. We work in a distributed model at locations across Canada (from BC to New Brunswick).
• The IIU also works on medium- to longer-term policy priorities where non-traditional and/or unconventional policy approaches may be required to address complex public policy challenges. IIU’s central position, along with unique skill sets, create the conditions to consider horizontal issues impacting all-of-government policy issues (e.g., AI, trust), how citizen-centered government services are delivered, as well as the application of new policy instruments and approaches for measurable impact.

Office of Audit and Evaluation

Claudette Blair - Chief Audit and Evaluation Executive

Key responsibilities by branch and assistant secretary

• Audit and Evaluation
• Departmental Audit Committee members support
• Liaison with external assurance providers (Office of the Auditor General, etc.)

Key files / issues

CESD audit of Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act

• PX Draft expected by June 30, 2023, with response due within 3 weeks (by July 21)
• DM Draft early September 2023
• Tabling November 2023

Is a standalone briefing recommended?

Yes, the Deputy Clerk will be briefed on the PX draft during the week of July 10. The Deputy Clerk and Clerk will be briefed on the DM draft in September 2023.

Upcoming decisions

• Nil

Key events and meetings (July to December)

• Departmental Audit Committee (September 6 & 7, 2023; 80 Wellington)
  • Attendees: external DAC members: Rod Monette (Chair), Daphne Meredith, Nancy Whipp; Deputy Clerk; CFO; CAEE; PCO presenters
• AG Tabling Fall 2023: Planned performance audit reports
  • Benefits Delivery Modernization (ESDC, SSC, TBS, PSPC)
  • Anti-racism, Equity, and Inclusion in the Federal Public Service (CBSA, CSC, Justice, Public Prosecution Service, PS, PSPC, RCMP, TBS)
  • Antimicrobial Resistance (PHAC, HC, CFIA, AAFC)
  • Processing Immigration Applications (IRCC)
  • ArriveCAN (CBSA, PHAC, PSPC)
  • Modernizing Information Technology Systems (TBS, SSC)
• CESD Tabling November 2023: Planned performance audit reports
  • Zero Emissions Vehicle Infrastructure Program (NRCan)
  • Monitoring Fisheries Catch (DFO)
  • Net-Zero Emissions Accountability (ECCC, NRCan, PCO, Finance)
  • EDC’s Environmental and Social Review Directive (EDC)
  • Departmental Progress in Implementing SDS – Zero-Emission Vehicles
  • Environmental Petitions Annual Report

Other

• Nil